06336, Gilman, Connecticut Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 06336, Gilman, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.37 percent of residents in 06336 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is William W Backus Hospital with a distance of 5.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 06336

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 06336, encompassing the charming village of Gilman, necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. A crucial element of this assessment is the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, encompassing various modes of transportation. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital healthcare.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation within and around Gilman are Interstate 95 (I-95) and Route 12. Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location and the destination. For example, accessing Backus Hospital in Norwich, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 12, offering a relatively straightforward commute. However, during peak traffic hours, particularly along Route 12, this travel time can extend considerably, potentially impacting healthcare access, especially for urgent medical needs. Further, the distance to larger regional hospitals, such as Yale New Haven Hospital, necessitates a longer journey, often exceeding an hour, primarily utilizing I-95.

Public transportation options in the area, while present, offer limited accessibility for residents of 06336. The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules may not always align with the specific needs of individuals seeking healthcare. While SEAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, the frequency of service and route coverage may present challenges. For instance, direct routes to major medical centers from Gilman are often unavailable, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Individuals without access to personal vehicles may rely on ride-sharing, but the expense and potential wait times could pose a barrier to healthcare access, especially for routine appointments or follow-up care. Medical transport services, such as CareLine, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility, and can be particularly beneficial for patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation.

The overall health score for residents of 06336, considering transportation factors, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to major roadways like I-95 and Route 12 facilitates access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers alternative options, but these services may not be universally accessible or affordable.

For individuals **moving to Gilman**, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing healthcare access. The location's relative isolation, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing services should factor in potential delays and costs when planning healthcare appointments. Furthermore, individuals with mobility impairments should thoroughly investigate the accessibility of public transportation and the availability of specialized medical transport services.

The healthcare landscape in 06336 is further shaped by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. While Backus Hospital in Norwich offers a range of services, residents may need to travel further for specialized care or access to a broader range of medical specialists. This underscores the importance of considering the overall healthcare ecosystem when assessing the ease of access to medical services.

The availability of telehealth services can also play a role in mitigating transportation challenges. Telehealth, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely via video or phone, can be particularly beneficial for routine appointments, follow-up care, and consultations with specialists. This can reduce the need for travel, saving time and money, and improving healthcare access for those with transportation limitations.

The presence of local pharmacies and urgent care clinics within or near Gilman further contributes to the healthcare access profile. These facilities provide convenient access to medications, minor medical treatments, and immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. The proximity of these services can reduce the burden on residents who need to travel to a hospital or specialist for routine medical needs.

The overall health score for 06336, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community benefits from its proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for travel delays pose challenges. For individuals **moving to Gilman**, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access. Prioritizing the availability of transportation options and considering the accessibility of local healthcare providers will contribute to a higher overall health score for residents.

The future of healthcare access in 06336 may be shaped by advancements in transportation technology and the expansion of telehealth services. Investments in public transportation infrastructure, including improved bus routes and schedules, could significantly enhance healthcare access for residents. The increasing adoption of telehealth, coupled with the availability of reliable internet connectivity, can further reduce the need for travel and improve access to healthcare services, particularly for those in rural or underserved areas.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of 06336, considering transportation factors, is a nuanced assessment. While the community benefits from its proximity to major roadways and the availability of alternative transportation options, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for travel delays pose challenges. For individuals **moving to Gilman**, a comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring access to vital healthcare services. The community's overall health score can be improved through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of telehealth services, and the promotion of accessible and affordable healthcare options.